On May 23, the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society (BBS) will mark 25 years of shaping the landscape of female entrepreneurship in Bahrain. Ahead of the society’s Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition (GWEFE), Farah Baig sat down with BBS President and Co-founder, Ahlam Janahi. She shared some insight into its achievements and future goals while shining a light on the highly-anticipated forum.
Can you give our readers some insight into your journey as BBS President?
Taking on the role of President of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society has been an incredibly transformative experience. When I first became involved with BBS, I was inspired by its mission to support women’s aspirations. Taking on the responsibility of leading the organisation offered me an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the business landscape in Bahrain.
My immediate focus was to build a clear vision for the future of BBS and ensure that it would not only be a platform for women to network but also a powerhouse for change, advocacy and opportunity.
What were some of your key priorities?
Cultivating strong partnerships with public and private sectors has been essential. By collaborating with government bodies, businesses and other organisations, we’ve been able to create synergies that elevate the role of women in business across Bahrain. In fact, BBS has signed over 70 MoUs with more to be signed at the Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing women’s access to leadership roles and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Advocating for policy change has been a cornerstone of my leadership. We’ve actively worked with local authorities to raise awareness about the importance of gender parity in the workplace.
What do you consider to be some of the society’s key achievements over the last 25 years?
BBS has achieved several significant milestones including the increased representation of women in business leadership, establishment of a thriving network for businesswomen, successful international collaboration and recognition, policy influence and advocacy and the strengthening of Bahrain’s economic development by fostering the growth of women-led businesses.
Furthermore, the society has been instrumental in empowering women in new industries. BBS has been at the forefront of encouraging Bahraini women to participate in emerging industries, such as technology, finance and innovation. By offering specialised programmes, such as in STEM fields, BBS has increased the participation of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
How has your role evolved over the years?
It has transformed from a more traditional leadership position to one that is dynamic, multifaceted and integrated into both, local and regional business ecosystems. As part of this change, we now have a stronger focus on digital transformation and innovation while strengthening regional and international networks.
My role has also evolved in the context of movements toward diversity and inclusion. Today, we are not just talking about gender equality but also creating opportunities for women from diverse backgrounds, including women with disabilities, women in rural areas and those from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
What are some of the recent initiatives introduced by BBS to foster a more inclusive business environment?
We have the Women in Leadership Programme which empowers women with the skills, confidence and networking opportunities to advance into leadership roles. The Bahraini Women in Technology Initiative supports the growing demand for women in the tech sector. Meanwhile the Young Entrepreneurs Programme supports young aspiring entrepreneurs through a series of workshops and incubator programmes – an essential initiative at BBS as it enables us to develop the next generation of businesswomen.
Furthermore, we work closely with financial institutions for funding programmes, facilitates international networking and collaboration and has several social responsibility and sustainability initiatives.
What are some of the society’s key goals moving forward?
Our goals are centred around strengthening our impact, expanding opportunities and ensuring that we continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of businesswomen in Bahrain, the region and beyond. To highlight our long-term goals, we aim to establish a global platform for Bahraini women, create a sustainable mentorship and leadership pipeline and strengthen the economic contribution of women in Bahrain.
BBS will soon organise the Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition (GWEFE). What can attendees expect?
The Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition (GWEFE) will bring together women leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals and experts from around the world to discuss key issues affecting women in the global economy and celebrate their achievements. attendees can expect inspirational talks and keynote speeches, panel discussions and workshops, networking opportunities and exhibitions.
The forum will feature prominent keynote speakers, including successful entrepreneurs, thought leaders and advocates for gender equality. These speakers will share insights on topics like leadership, innovation, economic empowerment, gender parity and social impact.
The forum provides an excellent platform for networking with fellow entrepreneurs, professionals and investors. Attendees can establish valuable business connections, form collaborations and even identify potential investors for their ventures.
Can you highlight some of the panellists and speakers at this year’s event?
There are around 50 local, regional and international speakers who will be at this year’s event. These speakers include Deputy to the Director General and the Managing Director of the Directorate of Global Partnerships and External Relations at UNIDO, Fatou Haidara, Director General of Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (IsFD), Dr Hiba Ahmed, Head of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain (UNIDO-ITPO), Dr. Hashim Hussein and Cécilia Attias who is the Senior VP of Public Affairs at Richard Attias & Associates, Founder & President of Cecilia Attias Foundation for Women and Former First Lady of France.
What would be your advice to women seeking advancement in their career or the business world?
Build confidence, develop key skills, foster relationships and embrace resilience. The journey to success is unique for every individual, but there are some common principles that can help women thrive in the professional world. Take ownership of your career, continue to learn and develop and build strong relationships with mentors, peers and allies. Seek leadership opportunities, embrace risk and make sure to prioritise self-care along the way.
Success in the business world is not just about reaching the top—it’s about the journey, the growth and the impact you make as you move forward.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I would like to congratulate HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on the 25th anniversary of his accession to the throne and the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. I would like to thank the President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, our Honorary President, Shaikha Thajba Bint Salman Al Khalifa and all the concerned ministries, organisations, media and sponsors for their unwavering support over the last 25 years.
As the president of the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society (BBS), I would like to emphasise our continued commitment to empowering women in business and fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth Over the years, we have seen remarkable progress, but there is still much more to do. The road ahead is filled with exciting opportunities and I’m committed to ensuring that the Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society remains a driving force in shaping a more inclusive and prosperous business landscape for women in Bahrain and beyond.
To register for the Global Women Economic Forum, visit gwefe.com.
